Sunday will be the last day of business for RiverBend Brewing Sports Pub, which opened in 2013 along with a brewery.

RiverBend Brewing’s production brewery, however, will remain open at 2600 NE Division St., said Gary Sobala, who owns both businesses and the property.

Sobala, 68, explained that he decided to close the restaurant and bar because he can no longer put in long hours on the pub floor, and he lined up a new tenant to occupy the space, which is at 2650 NE Division St.

Sobala declined to name the business that will take over the pub space.

“We’re proud and thankful and thrilled at the progress of the business,” Sobala said. “None of us know how long we’re going to be around. So we need to take a little time and enjoy stuff.”

About 15 people work at the pub, Sobala said.

Employees were notified 12 days ago, he said, and most decided to work until Sunday.

“And they’re doing an awesome job like they always do,” he said.

Although he started the business, Sobala has relied on others to brew and sell beer.

That four-person crew will remain, said Brent Nygard, brewery sales and operations manager.

RiverBend is on track to produce about 3,000 barrels this year, Nygard said.

The brewery has found growth in distributing bottles and cans in Oregon and Washington and hopes to extend distribution to Northern California, he said.

The brewery team, which includes head brewer Chasen Schultz, is looking to open a taproom in Bend by spring or summer, Nygard said.

— Reporter: 541-617-7860, kmclaughlin@bendbulletin.com